KU student dies in wreck on I-435

Kansas University Chancellor Robert Hemenway released a statement Monday about a KU student who died Friday evening in a wreck near Olathe.

Cecile Hernandez, 21 and a junior in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, died after the pickup truck she was driving west on Interstate 435 near the junction with Interstate 35 entered the median, struck an overhead sign post and caught fire, according to a Kansas Highway Patrol report.

"This is a tragic loss for the KU community. Our thoughts are with Cecile's family and friends during this difficult time," Hemenway said.

KU spokeswoman Jackie Hosey said Hernandez graduated from Olathe East High School. She was a student employee at KU Recreation Services, and director Mary Chappell said her "zest for life and free-spirited talents would be missed and celebrated."

Services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Olathe.

More like this story on LJWorld.com

Comments

I disagree, consumer. I think the university should make some kind of statement acknowledging the accidental death of a student. And the formulaic way of expressing condolences is perfectly acceptable. There's really no need to be original or creative in expressing sorry at the loss of a young life. Of course it's a tragedy and a loss for the community. Saying just that is fine.

Furthermore, at least to my mind, the very act of saying "my prayers are with you" is in itself a prayer.

People often don't know what to say to those grieving a loss. That's why we have these formulas. It makes it easier for all concerned. And it really does provide comfort. It's certainly better than silence.

Consumer1 I think I agree with Costello on this one.... In times of grief it is good to know all of the different areas your loved one has touched and been touched by. The family will know that the University Chancellor hasn't been bf's with the deceased; he is merely trying to represent the community of which she was a member...to acknowledge this was kind. Not all institutions would 'bother' to do so. Probably because they feel as you do, Consumer1. I don't think there's a 'right' or a 'wrong' here -- just a 'did' or 'didn't'. I'm glad he 'did'. And as for prayers being offered, maybe I'm alone on this, but anytime I read something like this -- I always say a quick prayer for those left behind as well as the deceased. It doesn't have to be poetic and perfectly composed to qualify as a prayer....

I'll bet in both cases that Cecile and family would warmly receive such sympathies and prayers. I certainly wish to leave you mine.